As the political crisis in Rivers State continues to simmer, former President Goodluck Jonathan is facing intense backlash for what many are calling a blatant failure of leadership and moral responsibility in the Niger Delta.
Critics argue that Jonathan, a key elder statesman from the region, remained conspicuously silent while tensions escalated, only surfacing now to criticize the Federal Government’s intervention.
Prominent voices have questioned Jonathan’s role, or lack thereof, as the situation deteriorated.
“Where was he when the crisis was getting out of hand?” asked a political analyst in Port Harcourt.
“Did he ever caution his kinsmen about their inflammatory utterances? Did he attempt to mediate or call for peace when it mattered most?”
Jonathan’s recent statements condemning President Bola Tinubu’s actions in Rivers State have sparked outrage, with many arguing that he has no moral ground to stand on.
“You cannot sit back while your region burns, and then suddenly speak against efforts to restore order,” one local leader stated.
“As a former president, especially from the Niger Delta, Jonathan has failed to rise to the occasion.”
The Rivers crisis, rooted in a fierce political battle between rival factions within the state’s leadership, has led to unrest, violence, and a breakdown of governance in several areas.
Observers believe early intervention by respected figures like Jonathan could have de-escalated the situation, but his absence and silence have only worsened public disillusionment.
Now, with federal forces stepping in to stabilize the state, Jonathan’s criticism of the president’s actions is being seen not only as ill-timed but hypocritical.
“Leadership is about responsibility, not convenience,” a Niger Delta youth leader emphasized.
“Jonathan chose to stay silent when his voice was needed most. His credibility on this issue is gone.”
As Rivers State struggles to restore peace, many are calling for accountability, not just from those directly involved in the conflict, but from those who had the power to influence outcomes and failed to act.
In the eyes of many in the Niger Delta, Jonathan’s legacy has taken a major blow.
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